A $500 million construction package aimed at stimulating job growth has cleared the state Senate.

The “Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012” would fund numerous capital improvement projects across the state. These repair and maintenance projects would update aging infrastructure at state facilities and address health and safety concerns.

The bill focuses on funding projects that are ready to begin to avoid delay in creating much-needed construction work. 

The capital improvement projects would also help Hawaii businesses that provide supplies and other support to the construction industry.

The state’s estimated repair and maintenance backlog exceeds $1 billion. If the bill also clears the House, funding would be available for public works projects at schools, health centers and other state-owned properties.